Footprints Reborn—A 1.5-decade Journey of Correcting Post-traumatic Equinus Deformity Using Z-plasty and Capsulotomy

IntroductIonEquinus deformity is a condition that restricts ankle dorsiflexion, often leading to gait abnormalities, such as toe walking and knee hyperextension, which can negatively impact daily activities. 1 While congenital anomalies and neuromuscular disorders are common causes, equinus deformity may also develop due to posttraumatic soft tissue contractures or prolonged immobilization 2 (Fig. 1).When conservative treatments such as physiotherapy and orthotic interventions fail, surgical intervention is required.Several techniques are available for Achilles tendon lengthening, including percutaneous tenotomy, gastrocnemius recession, and Z-plasty. 3,4Among these, Z-plasty is particularly beneficial in